He was more understanding than bitter when reflecting on his time with Minnesota United, but there's little doubt that forward Mason Toye can't wait for the next chapter of his nascent professional career to get underway.
With consistent playing time proving to be ever so elusive with the Loons, Toye indicated to the club that he'd welcome a change of scenery if the right offer came along. They obliged when the Montreal Impact provided that offer, to the tune of $600,000 in General Allocation Money and a second round 2021 MLS SuperDraft selection.
Toye made six starts for Minnesota this season, mostly whenever Luis Amarilla was unavailable to play. With Amarilla still out, the club acquired veteran forward Kei Kamara. In the two games after Kamara was acquired, Toye was an unused substitute.
“As a young player in this league, especially as an American No. 9, it’s hard to break into the team and become a consistent starter," Toye told reporters in a virtual press conference Friday. "Obviously there’s frustration, but that’s football.”
Toye can't wait to get started with the Impact. The club expect their new forward to be available to debut on Wednesday against Columbus Crew SC.
Watch: Mason Toye goals reel
In Thierry Henry's first season as Impact boss, Montreal currently sit in 8th place with 16 points after 14 games. They are two points clear of the playoff line.
“Here in Montreal, I’m really excited about this project," Toye said. "There’s a lot of young guys, young talent. Obviously with a coach like Thierry Henry, it’s amazing to be coached by him with all the knowledge he has.”
The feeling of excitement is mutual.
“I’m very happy," Henry said of the trade for Toye. "He’s 21, he still has a lot to learn but he’s a finisher. He showed that every time he had the chance to play. What impresses me with him, he can finish with both feet. The way we play, the way we like to keep our strikers, hopefully he can finish the job for us when he starts. We’re happy with the acquisition. It’s very important he’s a young guy who wants to learn a lot.”
Henry was an idol of Toye's growing up. A New Jersey native, the US youth national team forward got to catch the end of Henry's legendary career when he starred in MLS with the New York Red Bulls for four seasons. The Impact are currently playing their home games at Red Bull Arena, too.
“Funnily enough, the guy I looked up to the most is my coach now," Toye said. "Thierry is a guy I modeled my game off of most.”
Toye will help the Impact lead their charge towards the playoffs.
“I feel I can bring energy and goals to this team. I love scoring goals, it’s what I love to do, it’s what I’m here for and what I’m paid to do. Especially with the system we play, I feel it fits my style. I can’t wait to get started with the team and give my all for the team.”
